FMR1 alleles in women with idiopathic infertility / Alelos do gene FMR1 em mulheres com infertilidade idiopática

INTRODUCTION: The frequency of the premutation alleles of the FMR1 gene varies from 1:100 to 1:260 Israeli, Canadian, Finnish and American women, but it is unknown in Brazil. Premutation carriers may have reduced reproductive age and are at risk of transmitting the expanded allele to their offspring, and consequently fragile X syndrome. OBJECTIVE: To observe the distribution range of the FMR1 gene alleles in a population of women with idiopathic infertility, without symptoms of premature ovarian insufficiency. METHODS: The presence of premutation in FMR1 was assessed by conventional PCR, agarose, and acrylamide gel and analysis of fragments in capillary electrophoresis. Lymphocyte DNA obtained from 283 women undergoing infertility treatment was analyzed. RESULTS: 169 patients had the normal heterozygous allele (59.7%), 114 had the normal homozygous allele (40.6%) and no patient had the premutation. Premature ovarian insufficiency is seen in 20 to 30% of women with the permutated allele. Thus, the condition can be asymptomatic in a large part of the premutation carriers. Brazil has a diverse population and, therefore, the allele frequencies of many gene variants are unknown. Previous Brazilian studies have shown a low frequency of the premutation allele in different patient cohorts. Corroborating these articles, the results demonstrated that the frequency of the premutation allele is low in the infertile women population studied. CONCLUSION: Tracking the size of the FMR1 gene alleles allows the expansion of knowledge about the frequency of risk alleles associated with genetic diseases in the Brazilian population.

INTRODUÇÃO: A frequência dos alelos pré-mutados do gene FMR1 varia de 1:100 e 1:260 mulheres israelenses, canadenses, finlandesas e americanas, mas é desconhecida no Brasil. Portadoras da pré-mutação podem apresentar redução da idade reprodutiva e possuem risco de transmissão do alelo expandido para a prole, e consequentemente a Síndrome do X frágil. OBJETIVO: Observar a faixa de distribuição dos alelos do gene FMR1 em uma população de mulheres com infertilidade idiopática, sem sintomas de insuficiência ovariana prematura. MÉTODOS: A presença da pré-mutação em FMR1 foi avaliada por PCR convencional, gel de agarose e acrilamida e análise de fragmentos em eletroforese capilar. Analisou-se DNA de linfócitos obtidos de 283 mulheres em tratamento de infertilidade. RESULTADOS: Foi observado que 169 pacientes apresentam o alelo heterozigoto normal (59,7%), 114 apresentam o alelo homozigoto normal (40,6%) e nenhuma paciente apresentou a pré-mutação. A insuficiência ovariana prematura é observada em 20 a 30% das mulheres portadoras do alelo pré-mutado. Assim, a presença de um alelo pré-mutado pode ser assintomática em grande parte dos casos. O Brasil possui uma população diversificada e, portanto, as frequências alélicas de muitas variantes gênicas são desconhecidas. Estudos brasileiros anteriores mostraram uma baixa frequência do alelo pré-mutado em diferentes coortes de pacientes. Corroborando estes autores, os resultados demonstram que frequência do alelo pré-mutado é baixa na população de mulheres inférteis estudada. CONCLUSÃO: O rastreamento do tamanho dos alelos do gene FMR1 permite ampliar o conhecimento sobre a frequência dos alelos de risco para doenças genética na população brasileira.

Restoration of FMRP expression in adult V1 neurons rescues visual deficits in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome

Many people affected by fragile X syndrome (FXS) and autism spectrum disorders have sensory processing deficits, such as hypersensitivity to auditory, tactile, and visual stimuli. Like FXS in humans, loss of Fmr1 in rodents also cause sensory, behavioral, and cognitive deficits. However, the neural mechanisms underlying sensory impairment, especially vision impairment, remain unclear. It remains elusive whether the visual processing deficits originate from corrupted inputs, impaired perception in the primary sensory cortex, or altered integration in the higher cortex, and there is no effective treatment. In this study, we used a genetic knockout mouse model (Fmr1KO), in vivo imaging, and behavioral measurements to show that the loss of Fmr1 impaired signal processing in the primary visual cortex (V1). Specifically, Fmr1KO mice showed enhanced responses to low-intensity stimuli but normal responses to high-intensity stimuli. This abnormality was accompanied by enhancements in local network connectivity in V1 microcircuits and increased dendritic complexity of V1 neurons. These effects were ameliorated by the acute application of GABAA receptor activators, which enhanced the activity of inhibitory neurons, or by reintroducing Fmr1 gene expression in knockout V1 neurons in both juvenile and young-adult mice. Overall, V1 plays an important role in the visual abnormalities of Fmr1KO mice and it could be possible to rescue the sensory disturbances in developed FXS and autism patients.

Significance and case analysis of FMR1 mutation screening during early and middle pregnancy / 中华医学遗传学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To screen for mutations of fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene during early and middle pregnancy and provide prenatal diagnosis for those carrying high-risk CGG trinucleotide expansions.@*METHODS@#Peripheral blood samples of 2316 pregnant women at 12 to 21(+6) gestational weeks were collected for the extraction of genomic DNA. CGG repeats of the FMR1 gene were detected by fluorescence PCR and capillary electrophoresis. Genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis were provided for 3 women carrying the premutations.@*RESULTS@#The carrier rate of CGG repeats of the FMR1 gene was 1 in 178 for the intermediate type and 1 in 772 for the premutation types. The highest frequency allele of CGG was 29 repeats, which accounted for 49.29%, followed by 30 repeats (28.56%) and 36 repeats (8.83%). In case 1, the fetus had a karyotype of 45,X, in addition with premutation type of CGG expansion of the FMR1 gene. Following genetic counseling, the couple chose to terminate the pregnancy through induced labor. The numbers of CGG repeats were respectively 70/- and 29/30 for the husband and wife. In case 2, amniocentesis was performed at 20 weeks of gestation. The number of CGG repeats of the FMR1 gene was 29/-. No abnormality was found in the fetal karyotype and chromosomal copy number variations. The couple chose to continue with the pregnancy. Case 3 refused prenatal diagnosis after genetic counseling and gave birth to a girl at full term, who had a birth weight of 2440 g and no obvious abnormality found during follow-up.@*CONCLUSION@#Pregnant women should be screened for FMR1 gene mutations during early and middle pregnancy, and those with high-risk CGG expansions should undergo prenatal diagnosis, genetic counseling and family study.

Analysis and prenatal diagnosis of FMR1 gene mutations among patients with unexplained mental retardation / 中华医学遗传学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the (CGG)n repeats of FMR1 gene among patients with unexplained mental retardation.@*METHODS@#For 201 patients with unexplained mental retardation, the (CGG)n repeats of the FMR1 gene were analyzed by PCR and FragilEase@*RESULTS@#For the 201 patients with unexplained mental retardation, 15 were identified with full mutations of the FMR1 gene. The prevalence of fragile X syndrome (FXS) in patients with unexplained mental retardation was determined as 7.5% (15/201). Prenatal diagnosis was provided for 6 pregnant women with pre- or full mutations. Analysis revealed that women with mental retardation and full FMR1 mutations exhibited a skewed XCI pattern with primary expression of the X chromosome carrying the mutant allele.@*CONCLUSION@#FXS has a high incidence among patients with unexplained mental retardation. Analysis of FMR1 gene (CGG)n repeats in patients with unexplained mental retardation can facilitate genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis for their families. FMR1 gene (CGG)n repeats screening should be recommended for patients with unexplained mental retardation.

Analysis of FMR1 gene CGG repeats among patients with diminished ovarian reserve / 中华医学遗传学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the correlation between Fragile X mental retardation gene-1 (FMR1) gene CGG repeats with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR).@*METHODS@#For 214 females diagnosed with DOR, DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples. FMR1 gene CGG repeats were determined by PCR and capillary electrophoresis.@*RESULTS@#Three DOR patients were found to carry FMR1 premutations, and one patient was found to carry gray zone FMR1 repeats. After genetic counseling, one patient and the sister of another patient, both carrying FMR1 permutations, conceived naturally. Prenatal diagnosis showed that both fetuses have carried FMR1 permutations.@*CONCLUSION@#FMR1 gene permutation may be associated with DOR. Determination of FMR1 gene CGG repeats in DOR patients can provide a basis for genetic counseling and guidance for reproduction.

Síndrome del X frágil en fecundación in vitro: reporte de caso / Fragile X syndrome in in vitro fertilization: a case report

INTRODUCCIÓN: El síndrome de X frágil (SXF) es la primera causa heredable de discapacidad intelectual y autismo. Mujeres con la premutación del gen FMR1, relacionado con SXF, suelen ser asintomáticas, pero pueden tener hijos afectados. Se reporta un caso de SXF producto de fecundación in vitro con óvulos de una donante portadora de la premutación del FMR1. DESCRIPCIÓN DEL CASO: Pareja que requirió reproducción asistida dado que la mujer tenía antecedente de hipofisectomía; se realizó fecundación in vitro con óvulo donado, lográndose un embarazo gemelar. El gemelo femenino fue diagnosticado a los 2 años de edad con mutación completa del gen FMR1 y SXF, y la donante de óvulos, quien era asintomática, fue posteriormente confirmada como portadora de la premutación del FMR1. DISCUSIÓN: El protocolo de evaluación del riesgo de heredar enfermedades genéticas para donantes de óvulos se limita al cariotipo bandas G. Esta prueba no analiza alteraciones genéticas de herencia recesiva. Mediante secuenciación de nueva generación se podrían identificar portadoras de variantes alélicas patogénicas en estado de heterocigosis. Las mujeres con premutación del FMR1, tienen un riesgo del 50% de transmitir el alelo anormal a sus descendientes en cada embarazo, y estos de ser afectados por el SXF; por tanto, la asesoría genética es requerida en estos casos. CONCLUSIÓN: Los donantes de gametos deberían ser evaluados mediante pruebas moleculares para detección de variantes alélicas que pudieran ser transmitidas a sus gametos, y que pudieran generar enfermedades genéticas en los embarazos a partir de ellos.

INTRODUCTION: Fragile X syndrome (SXF) is the lead hereditary cause of intellectual disability and autism. Women with premutation in FMR1 gene, related to SXF, are usually asymptomatic, but they could have affected children. We report a case of SXF, product of an in vitro fertilization, secondary to an egg donation from a carrier of the premutation in the FMR1 gene. DESCRIPTION OF THE CASE: A couple required assisted reproduction because the woman had antecedent of hypophysectomy. An in vitro fertilization was done using a donated egg, achieving a twin pregnancy. The female twin was diagnosed with full mutation in the FMR1 gene and SXF by her second year of age. Donor woman, who was asymptomatic, was found to be a carrier of the premutation for SXF. DISCUSSION: The protocols to evaluate the risk of inherit genetic diseases for egg donors stint to band G karyotypes, which don—t consider genetic alterations with recessive inheritance pattern. Next generation sequencing allows to identify carriers of allelic heterozygote variations related with pathology. Women with the premutation in FMR1 have a risk of 50%, in each pregnancy, to pass down an affected allele to their offspring, who would be affected by SXF. Genetic counseling is mandatory in that cases. CONCLUSION: Gamete donor candidates should be submitted to molecular tests to identify allelic variants that could be inherited to the recipient offspring and cause genetic diseases.

Identificação de alterações genéticas relacionadas à síndrome do X frágil e ao transtorno de espectro do autismo por meio de ferramentas de bioinformática / Identification of genetic changes related to fragile x syndrome and autism spectrum disorder by bioinformatic tools

Introdução: a Síndrome do X Frágil (FXS) é a forma mais prevalente de deficiência intelectual herdável, e é a principal causa monogênica para o desenvolvimento de Transtorno de Espectro do Autismo (TEA). Objetivo: o objetivo do presente estudo é identificar RNAm associados à possíveis vias neurocomportamentais na SFX como no TEA, através de ferramentas de bioinformática. Metodologia: para identificação de possíveis vias alteradas entre a SFX e pacientes com TEA, utilizamos os bancos de dados GSE65106 e GSE21348 para anotação, visualização e descoberta integrada (DAVID 6.8). O valor de p <0,05 e fold change maior que 2 vezes (FC > 2) definidos como os limiares para a identificação de genes diferencialmente expressos (DE-RNAm). Resultados: foi possível identificar cerca de 32 DE-RNAm com funções em vias de spliceossomo, apoptose, transcrição, e em vias neurológicas comportamentais expressos exclusivamente na SFX. Os genes CAPNS1, HNRNPK, HNRPM, foram identificados como hipoexpressos em indivíduos com síndrome do X Frágil. Estes genes tem importante função moduladora nas respostas do potencial de longo prazo (LTP), plasticidade neural, e em transportadores de serotonina (SERT) alterando respostas que englobam humor, cognição e comportamentos, além de interferirem no receptor de dopamina (D2R) alterando as funções motoras e circuitos de recompensa. Conclusão: os genes CAPNS1, HNRNPK, HNRNPM foram identificados como marcadores genéticos eurocomportamentais importantes para a síndrome do X-frágil com expressão diminuída na doença, indicando uma possível modulação desses genes em aspectos fenotípicos marcantes da doença.

Introduction: fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the most prevalent form of inheritable intellectual disability, and is the leading monogenic cause for the development of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Objective: the aim of this study is to identify mRNA associated with possible neurobehavioral pathways in SFX as in ASD, using bioinformatics tools. Methodology: to identify possible altered pathways between SFX and ASD patients, we used the GSE65106 and GSE21348 databases for annotation, visualization and integrated discovery (DAVID 6.8). The p value <0.05 and fold change greater than 2 times (HR> 2) are defined as the thresholds for the identification of differentially expressed genes (DE-mRNA). Results: it was possible to identify about 32 DE-mRNA with functions in spliceosome, apoptosis, transcription, and behavioral neurological pathways expressed exclusively in SFX. CAPNS1, HNRNPK, HNRPM genes were identified as hypoexpressed in individuals with fragile X syndrome. These genes play an important modulating role in long-term potential (LTP), neural plasticity, and serotonin transporters (SERT) responses by altering mood, cognition, and behavioral responses, and by interfering with dopamine receptor (D2R) by motor functions and reward circuits. Conclusion: the CAPNS1, HNRNPK, HNRNPM genes have been identified as important neurobehavioral genetic markers for impaired X-syndrome, indicating a possible modulation of these genes into marked phenotypic aspects of the disease.

Características físicas e bucais na síndrome do X frágil: revisão de literatura / Physical and oral characteristics of fragile X syndrome: literature review

Introdução: A síndrome do cromossomo X frágil é uma síndrome genética que acomete principalmente indivíduos do sexo masculino. O nome desta síndrome ocorre como consequência de um estreitamento da extremidade distal do braço longo do cromossomo X, local chamado de sítio frágil. O presente trabalho apresenta uma revisão de literatura, apresentando etiologia, prevalência, métodos de diagnósti-co, características comportamentais, características físicas gerais e de interesse odontológico, além das considerações acerca do atendimento, realizado pelo cirurgião-dentista, em portadores da síndrome do X frágil. Revisão de literatura: As principais características comportamentais são o déficit de atenção, a dificuldade na interação social, a timidez, a ansiedade, a labilidade emocional e os movimentos este-reotipados de mãos. Os achados de interesse odontológico mais prevalentes na literatura foram palato ogival, prog-natismo mandibular, macroglossia, hipoplasia de esmalte e má oclusão. Discussão: Não foram encontrados muitos artigos voltados para a análise facial e odontológica destes pacientes. O atendimento deste público é um desafio para o cirurgião-dentista devido às características comportamentais e fisiológicas apresentadas. Conclusão: o conhecimento das características desta síndrome pelo profissional é impor-tante, pois a síndrome comumente se associa à doenças sistêmicas que podem influenciar no plano de tratamento, além de alterações orofaciais importantes.

Introduction: The fragile X syndrome is a genetic syn-drome that mainly affects males. The name of this syn-drome occurs as a consequence of a narrowing of the distal end of the long arm of the X chromosome, a site called the fragile site. This paper presents a review of the literature, presenting etiology, prevalence, diagnostic methods, behavioral characteristics, general physical characteristics and dental interest, as well as considera-tions about the care provided by the dentist in patients with fragile X syndrome. Literature review: The main behavioral characteristics are attention deficit, difficulty in social interaction, shyness, anxiety, emotional lability and stereotyped hand movements. The most prevalent findings of dental interest in the literature were the ogival palate, mandibular prognathism, macroglossia, enamel hypoplasia and malocclusion. Discussion: There were not many articles focused on facial and dental analysis of these patients. The care of this public is a challenge for the dentist due to the behavioral and physiological characteristics presented. Conclusion: professional know-ledge of the characteristics of this syndrome is important, as the syndrome is commonly associated with systemic diseases that may influence the treatment plan, as well as major orofacial changes.

Síndrome X frágil: presentación clínica, patología y tratamiento / Fragile X syndrome: clinical presentation, pathology and treatment

Resumen El síndrome X frágil es la condición monogenética que produce más casos de autismo y de discapacidad intelectual. La repetición de tripletes CGG (> 200) y su metilación conllevan el silenciamiento del gen FMR1. La proteína FMRP (producto del gen FMR1) interacciona con los ribosomas, controlando la traducción de mensajeros específicos y su pérdida produce alteraciones de la conectividad sináptica. El tamizaje de síndrome X frágil se realiza por reacción en cadena de la polimerasa. La recomendación actual de la Academia Americana de Pediatría es realizar pruebas a quienes presenten discapacidad intelectual, retraso global del desarrollo o antecedentes familiares de afección por la mutación o premutación. Países hispanos como Colombia, Chile y España reportan altas prevalencias de síndrome X frágil y han creado asociaciones o corporaciones nacionales de X frágil que buscan acercar a los pacientes a redes disponibles de diagnóstico y tratamiento.

Abstract Fragile X syndrome is the monogenetic condition that produces more cases of autism and intellectual disability. The repetition of CGG triplets (> 200) and their methylation entail the silencing of the FMR1 gene. The FMRP protein (product of the FMR1 gene) interacts with ribosomes by controlling the translation of specific messengers, and its loss causes alterations in synaptic connectivity. Screening for fragile X syndrome is performed by polymerase chain reaction. Current recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics is to test individuals with intellectual disability, global developmental retardation or with a family history of presence of the mutation or premutation. Hispanic countries such as Colombia, Chile and Spain report high prevalence of fragile X syndrome and have created fragile X national associations or corporations that seek to bring patients closer to available diagnostic and treatment networks.

Evaluación del uso de fármacos y conducta en pacientes con síndrome X frágil / Asessment of pharmacological freatment and behavioral changes in patients with fragile X syndrome

El Síndrome X Frágil (SXF) es la principal causa heredada de Discapacidad intelectual (DI) y Trastorno del espectro autista (TEA). Se caracteriza por presentar un fenotipo conductual asociado a hiperactividad, déficit atencional, impulsividad, ansiedad, trastornos conductuales, espectro autista y retraso global del desarrollo. No existe actualmente un tratamiento farmacológico para el trastorno genético de base. El tratamiento farmacológico se focaliza en los síntomas que interfieren con la calidad de vida y aprendizaje, entre ellos la irritabilidad e hiperactividad. OBJETIVO: Evaluar cambios conductuales a través de la escala conductual ABC, de pacientes masculinos con diagnóstico de SXF tratados con psicoestimulantes y/o antipsicóticos en comparación a controles. MÉTODO: Se evalúa a 40 pacientes hombres con diagnóstico de SXF entre los años 2014 y 2017. Se utiliza la evaluación de la conducta mediante el puntaje en la subescala de irritabilidad e hiperactividad de la encuesta ABC-C y el registro de fármacos indicados. Se compara la sintomatología conductual en pacientes que no utilizan fármacos, aquellos que utilizan antipsicóticos, los que usan psicoestimulantes y pacientes tratados con ambos fármacos. RESULTADOS: La mediana de edad fue de 15,1 (±9,3) años. Del total de pacientes, el 42,5% reportó uso de fármacos, de éstos el 35% utilizó psicoestimulantes, 35% antipsicóticos y 30% la combinación de ambos. Se observa que solo el grupo que recibe tratamiento con psicoestimulantes y antipsicóticos en forma simultánea presenta diferencias con el subgrupo sin tratamiento farmacológico. CONCLUSIONES: En más de la mitad de nuestros pacientes se decide no utilizar tratamiento farmacológico. Sin embargo, dichos pacientes igualmente presentan sintomatología de irritabilidad e hiperactividad. Los pacientes que recibieron terapia asociada de psicoestimulantes y antipsicóticos presentan puntajes significativamente más altos en la escala de irritabilidad que aquellos que no recibieron tratamiento farmacológico. Este grupo, que constituye el 12,5% del total de la muestra, presenta un fenotipo conductual que genera mayores dificultades en la calidad de vida del paciente y su entorno.

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the main inherited cause of Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It characteristically presents as a behavioral phenotype asso- ciated with hyperactivity, attention deficit, impulsivity, anxiety, behavioral disorders, autistic spectrum and global developmental delay. There is currently no pharmacological treatment for the underlying genetic disorder. Pharmacological treatment targets symptoms that interfere with quality of life and learning, including irritability and hyperactivity.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate behavioral changes through the ABC behavioral scale of male patients diagnosed with FXS treated with psychostimulants and / or antipsychotics compared to controls. METHOD: 40 male patients with a diagnosis of FXS between 2014 and 2017 were evaluated. The behavioral assessment was done by scoring the irritability and hyperactivity subscale of the ABC-C survey and by registering the prescribed drug. Behavioral symptomatology was compared in patients who do not use drugs, those who use antipsychotics, those who use psychostimulants and patients treated with both drugs. RESULTS: The median age was 15.1 (± 9.3) years. Of the total of patients, 42.5% were prescribed drugs, of these 35% used psychostimulants, 35% antipsychotics and 30% the combination of both. It was observed that the group that received treatment with both psychostimulants and antipsychotics simultaneously presented differences with the subgroup without pharmacological treatment.CONCLUSIONS: In more than half of our patients no pharmacological treatment is prescribed. However, these patients also show symptoms of irritability and hyperactivity. Patients who received associated therapy of psychostimulants and antipsychotics have significantly higher scores on the irritability scale than those who did not receive pharmacological treatment. This group, which constitutes 12.5% of the total sample, has a behavioral phenotype that generates greater difficulties in the patient's quality of life and their environment.

Fragilidad del X y otras entidades asociadas al gen FMR1: estudio de 28 familias afectadas / Fragile X syndrome and other entities associated with the FMR1 gene: Study of 28 affected families

El síndrome de fragilidad del cromosoma X es la causa de discapacidad intelectual heredable más frecuente. Asociado a trastornos del espectro autista en un tercio de los pacientes, afecta, con mayor prevalencia, a los varones. Se debe a una expansión de trinucleótidos CGG (citosina, guanina, guanina), llamada mutación completa en el locus Xq27.3 del gen FMR1, que conduce a la hipermetilación en el promotor del gen y reduce los niveles de expresión de FMRP, una proteína implicada en la maduración y plasticidad sináptica. Una expansión menor de CGG es la causa de insuficiencia ovárica primaria y del síndrome de temblor/ataxia asociado a X frágil, caracterizado por ataxia cerebelosa progresiva, de inicio tardío, y temblor de intención. En el presente estudio de serie de casos, se analiza la segregación de mutaciones del gen FMR1 en diferentes familias y la variabilidad de expresión clínica que llevó a la consulta genética.

The fragile X syndrome occurs due to an expansion of CGG trinucleotides, called full mutation, which is found at the Xq27.3 locus of the FMR1 gene. It is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability. Associated with autistic spectrum disorders in one third of the patients, it affects males with higher prevalence. It also leads to hypermethylation of the gene promoter, silencing it and reducing the expression levels of FMRP, a protein involved in synaptic maturation and plasticity. A lower expansion causes primary ovarian failure syndrome as well as tremor and ataxia syndrome characterized by progressive cerebellar ataxia of late onset and intention tremor. In the present case-control study we analyze the segregation of mutations of the FMR1 gene in different families and the variability of expression that led to the genetic consultation.

Fragile X-Associated Tremor/Ataxia Syndrome: An Illustrative Case

No abstract available.

Prenatal diagnosis for 30 women carrying a FMR1 mutation / 中华医学遗传学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To determine the CGG repeat number and methylation status of FMR1 gene for fetuses whose mothers have carried a FMR1 mutation.@*METHODS@#For 30 pregnant women, the fetal CGG repeat number was determined with a GC-rich PCR system by using chorionic villus, amniotic fluid or umbilical blood samples. The methylation status of the FMR1 gene was confirmed with Southern blotting.@*RESULTS@#In total 30 prenatal diagnoses were performed for 29 carriers of FMR1 gene mutations and 1 with FMR1 gene deletion mosaicism. Three fetuses were found to carry premutations, 9 were with full mutations and 1 with mosaicism of premutation and full mutations. Eighteen fetuses were normal.@*CONCLUSION@#Considering the genetic complexity of Fragile X syndrome (FXS), single method may not suffice accurate determination of their genetic status. The pitfalls and technical limitations of protocols requires adoption of personalized strategy for its prenatal diagnosis.

Fragile X Syndrome in a Colombian Family / Sindrome X frágil en una Familia Colombiana

RESUMEN Se realizó un estudio descriptivo a una familia de Cali, Colombia, en el cual se evaluaron nueve pacientes, tres de los cuales presentaban discapacidad intelectual sin diagnóstico etiológico anterior. El caso índice fue diagnosticado con el síndrome X frágil mediante pruebas moleculares de ADN. Se realizaron pruebas en cascada a todos los miembros de la familia disponibles, identificando dos individuos adicionales con la mutación completa y cuatro portadores del alelo con pre mutación. Con este informe pretendemos contribuir a la epidemiología colombiana del síndrome y destacamos la importancia del diagnóstico etiológico de la discapacidad intelectual y proporcionar un tratamiento integral y específico a las personas afectadas. Además se busca identificar a los portadores de la pre mutación o mujeres con mutación completa sin fenotipo clásico para el asesoramiento genético y la educación sobre posibles patologías asociadas.

SUMMARY A study was performed on a family from Cali, Colombia in which nine patients were evaluated, three of which presented with intellectual disability with no previous etiological diagnosis. The proband was diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome by DNA molecular testing and, cascade testing, performed on all available family members, identifying two additional individuals with the full mutation and four carriers of a premutation allele. With this report we seek to contribute to Colombian epidemiology of the syndrome and emphasize the importance of diagnosis to provide a comprehensive and specific treatment to those affected. Further we seek to identify premutation carriers in their families or women with a full mutation without the classic phenotype for genetic counseling and education about potential associated pathologies.

Report on the External Quality Assessment Scheme for Molecular Diagnostics in Korea (2017)

Quality control for genetic analysis has become more important with a drastic increase in testing volume and clinical demands. The molecular diagnostics division of the Korean Association of Quality Assurance for Clinical Laboratory conducted two trials in 2017 on the basis of molecular diagnostics surveys, involving 53 laboratories. The molecular diagnostics surveys included 37 tests: gene rearrangement tests for leukemia (BCR-ABL1, PML-RARA, AML1-ETO, and TEL-AML1), genetic tests for Janus kinase 2, FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3-internal tandem duplication, FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3-tyrosine kinase domain, nucleophosmin, cancer-associated genes (KRAS, EGFR, KIT, and BRAF), hereditary breast and ovarian cancer genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2), Li-Fraumeni syndrome (TP53), Wilson disease (ATP7B), achondroplasia (FGFR3), hearing loss and deafness (GJB2), Avellino (TGFBI), multiple endocrine neoplasia 2 (RET), Huntington disease, spinocerebellar ataxia, spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy, mitochondrial encephalopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes, myoclonic epilepsy ragged red fibre, Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, Prader-raderd Angelman syndrome, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy, fragile X syndrome, apolipoprotein E genotyping, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase genotyping, and ABO genotyping. Molecular genetic surveys revealed excellent results for most participants. The external quality assessment program for genetic analysis in 2017 proved useful for continuous education and the evaluation of quality improvement.

Tremor-Ataxia syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency in an FMR1 premutation carrier / Síndrome de Tremor Ataxia y falla ovárica prematura en portadora de la premutación del gen FMR1

Abstract Introduction: The FMR1 gene has four allelic variants according to the number of repeats of the CGG triplet. Premutation carriers with between 55 and 200 repeats are susceptible to developing pathologies such as tremor and ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) and fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI) syndrome. Case description: The patient was a 53-year-old female farmer with severe tremor in the upper limbs at rest that worsens with movement, tremor in the jaw and tongue, and generalized cerebral atrophy. She is a carrier of the FMR1 premutation diagnosed by PCR and Southern Blot, complying with the clinical and radiological criteria of FXTAS, and in addition, has a history of vagal symptoms suggestive of ovarian failure and menstrual cycle disorders that led to hysterectomy at age 33 and was subsequently diagnosed with FXPOI. Conclusion: An unusual case of FXTAS and FXPOI complying with clinical and radiological criteria is reported in a premutation carrier of the FMR1 gene.

Resumen Introducción: el gen FMR1 tiene cuatro variantes alélicas según el número de repeticiones de la tripleta CGG. Los portadores de la premutación con un número entre 55 y 200 repeticiones son susceptibles de desarrollar patologías como el síndrome de temblor y ataxia (FXTAS) y síndrome de falla ovárica prematura (FXPOI) asociados al X frágil. Descripción del caso: Mujer de 53 años, agricultora, con temblor severo en miembros superiores en reposo que empeora con el movimiento, temblor en mandíbula y lengua, atrofia cerebral generalizada, portadora de la premutación del gen FMR1 diagnosticada por PCR y Southern Blot, cumpliendo con criterios clínicos y radiológicos de FXTAS; ademas, historia de síntomas vagales sugestivos de falla ovárica y trastornos del ciclo menstrual que llevaron a histerectomía a los 33 años, haciendose diagnóstico FXPOI. Conclusión: Se reporta un caso inusual en portadoras de la premutación del gen FMR1, con criterios clínicos y radiológicos de FXTAS y FXPOI.

Metabolic screening and metabolomics analysis in the Intellectual Developmental Disorders Mexico Study / Tamiz bioquímico y metabolómico en el estudio de los trastornos del desarrollo intelectual en México

Abstract: Objective: Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are genetic conditions that are sometimes associated with intellectual developmental disorders (IDD). The aim of this study is to contribute to the metabolic characterization of IDD of unknown etiology in Mexico. Materials and methods: Metabolic screening using tandem mass spectrometry and fluorometry will be performed to rule out IEM. In addition, target metabolomic analysis will be done to characterize the metabolomic profile of patients with IDD. Conclusion: Identification of new metabolomic profiles associated with IDD of unknown etiology and comorbidities will contribute to the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic schemes for the prevention and treatment of IDD in Mexico.

Resumen: Objetivo: Los errores innatos del metabolismo (EIM) son condiciones genéticas que pueden asociarse con trastornos del desarrollo intelectual (TDI). El objetivo de este estudio es contribuir a la caracterización metabólica de los pacientes con TDI de etiología desconocida. Material y métodos: Se realizará un tamiz metabólico mediante espectrometría de masas-tándem y fluorometría para descartar EIM; además, se analizará el perfil metabolómico de los pacientes con TDI. Conclusión: La identificación de perfiles metabolómicos asociados con los TDI de etiología desconocida contribuirá al desarrollo de nuevos esquemas diagnósticos y terapéuticos para la prevención y tratamiento de los TDI en México.

A Síndrome do X Frágil e o estabelecimento de fenótipos cognitivo-comportamentais: uma revisão sistemática de literatura / The Fragile X Syndrome and the development of cognitive-behavioral phenotypes: a literature systematic review

Este artigo consiste em uma revisão sistemática de literatura que tem como objetivo fazer um panorama do conteúdo das publicações sobre cognição, comportamento e Síndrome do X Frágil. Realizou-se o levantamento bibliográfico nas bases de dados Pubmed, Science Direct, SciELO e LILACS, por meio dos descritores pré-estabelecidos cognition, behavior e Fragile X Syndrome. Foram selecionados 9 trabalhos para uma análise mais cuidadosa. Todos eram relevantes em relação às características fenotípicas cognitivo-comportamentais de crianças com a Síndrome do X Frágil, relatavam pesquisas experimentais transversais e descreviam aspectos comportamentais e/ou relacionados às funções executivas. As características cognitivas mais frequentemente apontadas pela revisão realizada foram: baixo coeficiente de inteligência, prejuízos na atenção, linguagem deficitária e motricidade. Já os aspectos comportamentais destacados estavam relacionados ao transtorno do espectro autista, à ansiedade e às dificuldades na socialização. Notou-se a presença de poucos estudos disponíveis na literatura e a necessidade de maiores investimentos nessa área de pesquisa. Mais estudos auxiliarão na maior compreensão da Síndrome do X Frágil e ampliarão as possibilidades de intervenção.

This article consists of a systematic literature review that aims to make an overview of the content of publications on cognition, behavior and Fragile X syndrome. It was conducted the literature review in Pubmed, Science Direct, SciELO and LILACS, usingthe pre-established descriptors cognition, behavior and Fragile X Syndrome. Nine papers were selected for closer examination. All were relevant in relation to cognitive behavioral phenotypic characteristics of children with Fragile X Syndrome, reported cross experimental research and described behavioral aspects and/or related to executive functions. Cognitive characteristics most often highlighted by the review were conducted: low intelligence quotient, impairments in attention, poor motor skills and language. Behavioral aspects were related to autism spectrum disorder, anxiety and difficulties in socialization. The presence of few studies available in the literature and the need for further investments in this area of research it was noted. More studies will assist in better understanding of Fragile X Syndrome and expand the possibilities of intervention.

Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection in a female patient with fragile X syndrome / 고신대학교의과대학학술지

We report a case of Spontaneous coronary artery dissection associated with fragile X syndrome. The relationship between fragile X syndrome and Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is unclear. However, More research will need about the causes and treatment of Spontaneous coronary artery dissection.